Rookie Rockhounds

The junior members of the Columbia Gem and Mineral Society have their own club called the "Rookie Rockhounds".The Rookie Rockhounds are a part of a national group, the Future Rockhounds of American (FRA).The Future Rockhounds of America was begun by the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies in 1984, so that the youth in our clubs would have an organization all their own. The mission of the FRA is to encourage youth activities and learning and to keep their interest in rockhounding high.

Mission Statement

Future Rockhounds of America is a nationwide nonprofit program within the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies that develops and delivers quality youth activities in the earth sciences and lapidary arts in a fun, family environment.Our underlying goals are to foster science literacy and arts education through structured activities that are engaging and challenging and by which kids -- and the adults who mentor them--learn while having fun.

Diamond Dan is very happy to welcome the Southeastern Federation of Mineralogical Societies to the Mini Miners Family. The SFMS is a Federation of 80+ mineral clubs and societies from the Southeastern states. Every club and society in this Federation will be receiving Mini Miners Monthly for the next two years.

If you have pictures from your club meetings, articles by your club members, mineral art or anything else that you would like to share with young mineral collectors all around the world, please email them to Mini Miners Monthly and we will publish your contributions in future issues.

You can contact us at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

SFMS Workshops/News

William Holland School of Lapidary Arts

The William Holland School of Lapidary Arts is situated on a mountain in north Georgia near the North Carolina border. It is a Rockhound's Dream come true. Here, near YoungHarrisCollege, is a special school that is like no other in the United States. The serious Rockhound can learn how to turn rough gems into family keepsakes. With dedication and determination, an inspired group of hobbyists is making it possible for many others to enjoy the fruits of their knowledge.

Wildacres Retreat, Little Switzerland NC

A conference center offering its facilities to nonprofit groups which conduct educational or cultural programs and seminars. It is a true retreat, undisturbed by through traffic or noises of the city. Wildacres is situated on 1400 acres at an elevation of 3,300 feet atop a mountain called Pompey's Knob, near the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is halfway between Asheville and Blowing Rock in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.